CMC Group
Residential & commercial electrical contractor Serving Maryland • DC • Virginia  |  Mon–Fri, 6 AM – 4 PM

Services / Outlets, Switches & Alarms

Outlets that work. Protection that's up to date.

New and replacement outlets and switches, GFCI and AFCI protection, and smoke and carbon monoxide alarms for homes and businesses.

When you need it

Signs it's time to call

Dead, loose or warm outlets

Outlets that don't hold plugs, feel warm or buzz should be checked promptly.

Missing GFCI protection

Kitchens, baths, garages and outdoor areas often need it, and older buildings may not have it.

Not enough outlets

Extension cords and power strips are a sign you need more outlets or dedicated circuits.

Alarms that are old or not working

Most manufacturers recommend replacing smoke alarms about every 10 years.

What's included

Scope of work

  • Outlet and switch replacement and additions
  • GFCI outlet installation, and GFCI or AFCI breaker protection where required
  • Dimmers, smart switches and three-way switches
  • USB and tamper-resistant outlets
  • Weather-rated outdoor outlets and covers
  • Dedicated circuits for appliances, garages and workshops
  • Hardwired, interconnected smoke and carbon monoxide alarm installation and replacement
  • Testing of every device after installation

What you receive

  • Every outlet and switch tested for correct wiring and grounding
  • GFCI and AFCI devices tested and labeled
  • Alarms tested and interconnected
  • A short summary of anything else we noticed

How it works

From first call to finished work

  1. Walk throughLook at what you have and what you want changed.
  2. QuoteA clear price for the list of work.
  3. InstallReplace or add devices and wiring safely.
  4. TestConfirm each device works and is wired correctly.
  5. Tidy upClean up and go over the work with you.

Codes and alarms

Smoke and carbon monoxide alarm requirements vary by jurisdiction and building type. We install to the requirements that apply and can tell you what they are for your property. Commercial fire alarm systems are a separate specialty and may require a licensed fire alarm contractor.

FAQ

Outlets, Switches & Alarms questions

Where are GFCI outlets required?

Generally in wet or damp locations such as kitchens, bathrooms, garages, basements and outdoors. Rules vary by code edition and jurisdiction, and we will tell you what applies.

What is the difference between GFCI and AFCI?

GFCI protection reduces the risk of shock by cutting power when current leaks to ground. AFCI protection detects dangerous arcing that can start fires. Modern codes require one or both on many circuits.

How often should I replace smoke alarms?

Most manufacturers recommend about every 10 years. Check the date on the back of each unit, and test them monthly.

Can you add outlets where I have none?

Usually. It depends on access to wiring and the capacity of the circuit. We assess before we quote.

Why does my outlet feel warm or buzz?

That can signal a loose connection or an overload. Stop using it and call us.

Need help with Outlets, Switches & Alarms?

Tell us what you have. We reply within one business day.

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